Printed tag with location and orientation components for an optical reader

Abstract

A printed tag is provided which can be read with an optical scanner. The tag includes a locator component. The locator component includes an endless line and can be used to locate the optical scanner with respect to the tag. An orientation component is located within the bounds of the endless line and can be used to orient the optical scanner with respect to the tag. A data component includes data to be read by the scanner.

1. A printed tag for reading with an optical scanner, the tag comprising:
 a locator component comprising an endless line and configured to represent a location of the optical scanner with respect to the tag; 
 an orientation component located within bounds of the endless line and configured to represent an orientation of the optical scanner with respect to the tag; and 
 a data component which is configured to represent data to be read by the scanner. 
 
   
   
     2. A printed tag as claimed in  claim 1 , wherein the endless line is in the form of a circular ring. 
   
   
     3. A printed tag as claimed in  claim 2 , wherein the data component comprises one or more data segments which are located concentrically with respect to the circular ring. 
   
   
     4. A printed tag as claimed in  claim 1 , wherein the orientation component has a keyhole-like shape. 
   
   
     5. A printed tag as claimed in  claim 1 , wherein the data component comprises one or more data segments which are located outside the endless line. 
   
   
     6. A printed tag as claimed in  claim 5 , wherein the data component comprises one or more further data segments which are located within the endless line. 
   
   
     7. A printed tag as claimed in  claim 6 , wherein each data segment comprises a checkerboard-like pattern. 
   
   
     8. A printed tag as claimed in  claim 5 , wherein each data segment is arcuate.